“An exuberant parody of a Hitchcockian spy thriller, this ’39 Steps’ benefits from an accomplished cast under the expert direction of Tyler J. Seguin. Comic timing executed with precision.”
The Guild Festival Theatre’s (GFT) opening night production of ‘The 39 Steps’ achieves a sense of grandeur on the intimacy of Scarborough’s Greek theatre stage. Under the capable guidance of director Tyler J. Seguin, who deftly satirizes Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film, the four-person cast demonstrates impressive command of timing and characterization essential to successful parody. Be aware that your cheeks may hurt from laughing.
Patrick Barlow’s adaptation establishes the story in 1937 London. Protagonist Richard Hannay (Sébastien Heins), a thirty-seven-year-old Canadian, attends the theatre seeking diversion and finds himself unwittingly involved in a web of espionage. After meeting Annabella Schmidt (Georgia Findlay) during a vaudeville-type show, Hannay becomes embroiled in a plot involving British military secrets and an organization known as ‘The 39 Steps’. When Hannay discovers Annabella murdered in his flat, the young man flees on account of possible false accusations that he committed the crime. Hannay’s flight sets off a sequence of rapid scene changes, comic misunderstandings, and inventive escapes.
The pace remains brisk as the production transitions between locations, enhanced by agile performances and practical prop usage that transform the Scarborough Greek theatre stage. Remarkably rapid costume changes contribute to the production’s dynamic energy.
Ashley Naomi’s carefully curated sound design in preshow music nicely sets the mood for the thrill of the chase that the audience is about to see. Additionally, Naomi’s impeccably timed cues heighten the dramatic intensity of the moment. Costume Designers Carmen and Alex Amini select period-appropriate clothing reflecting the late 1930s. I can imagine there’s a lot of running and fast movement backstage as the actors cross over. Stage Manager Kiera Doerksen Smith and her team have their work cut out for them to ensure seamless transitions backstage. As the sun sets, Lighting Designer Adam Walters employs thoughtful effects to direct attention and build dramatic intensity, utilizing effective spotlights.
Director Seguin’s approach embraces the inherent chaos of the parody. It is the cast’s consistently high energy and commitment that truly drive the production. Sustained and engaging performances foster strong audience rapport and reaction through occasional fourth-wall breaks and interactive moments. The actors’ agility and comedic skill ensure the intricate pace is maintained throughout.
Notably, Isaiah Kolundzic and Kiana Woo excel in all secondary roles, delivering quick physical and vocal transitions. Georgia Findlay distinctively portrays Hannay’s three love interests—Annabella, Margaret, and Pamela—each with precise comedic nuance. As Richard Hannay, Sébastien Heins embodies the charisma and confidence of the roguish man, adeptly engaging the other characters and the audience.
I’ve seen some outstanding summer theatre so far, and ‘The 39 Steps’ stands out as one of the season’s exemplary offerings. The Guild Festival Theatre combines the ambition and dedication of its cast and crew to produce an experience marked by well-crafted humour and technical proficiency. The laughter generated is likely to remain with audiences well after the curtain call.
An absolute delight and treat of a play. Please go and see it.
Running time: approximately two hours and 10 minutes with a 5 -7 minute stretch break.
‘The 39 Steps’ runs until August 3 at the Greek Theatre, Guild Park & Gardens, 201 Guildwood Parkway, Scarborough. For tickets: guildfestivaltheatre.ca, call 647-576-7822 or email: boxoffice@guildfestivaltheatre.ca
GUILD FESTIVAL THEATRE presents
‘The 39 Steps’ Adapted by Patrick Barlow. From the Novel by John Buchan. From the film by Alfred Hitchcock
Directed by Tyler J. Seguin
Stage Manager: Kiera Doerksen Smith
Sound Designer: Ashley Naomi
Costume Designers: Carmen and Alex Amini
Fight and Intimacy Director: Siobhan Richardson
Performers: Sébastien Heins, Georgia Findlay, Isaiah Kolundzic, Kiana Woo
(Photo Credit: Raph Nogal. Foreground: Sébastien Heins and Georgia Findlay. Background: Kiana Woo and Isaiah Kolundzic)
